FARMINGDALE, N.Y. | The Farmingdale State College men's and women's tennis teams recently served as a host site for the USTA Campus Kids Day Program, welcoming local children ages ranging from 5 to 15 years old to work on sport-specific skills in addition to allowing them see a live college match.

"It was so much fun seeing the players interact with children from the community on the tennis court," said Adam Waterhouse, who is in his 20th year as head coach of both Rams programs. "Their energy is contagious, and everyone had a great time."

The USTA sponsors Campus Kids Day events nationwide, serving as both a tennis skills clinic in addition to allowing children to witness a college match in person. These events are designed to significantly boost the visibility of local collegiate programs. They aim to expose junior players to the excitement, energy and fun of a college tennis match, with the goal of inspiring attendees to pursue collegiate tennis. Through collaboration with college coaches, this initiative strives to introduce hundreds of young athletes each year to the world of college tennis through the outstanding programs across the country.

Farmingdale State's men's team is the No. 2 seed for the 2026 Skyline Conference Men's Tennis Championship, and the three-time defending champions will play host to third-seeded U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in semifinal action on Wednesday, April 29, at 3 p.m.

What the student-athletes are saying about USTA Campus Kids Day

"Campus Kids Day was a great experience because we got to work with the kids on their tennis skills, while also making the sport fun for them. Seeing them improve, gain confidence, and enjoy themselves was the best part."

- Natalia Furchel (Manorville, N.Y.), junior, Farmingdale State College women's tennis

"As a student-athlete and captain, it was such a great privilege to work with so many kids enthusiastic about tennis on Campus Kids Day! Passing along skills, seeing children develop a love for the sport, and helping them improve while having a lot of fun were some of my favorite moments."

- Gabriella Loria (Levittown, N.Y.), senior, Farmingdale State College women's tennis

"It was awesome to give back and help introduce younger kids to the sport. It really reminded us why we started playing in the first place."

- Emil Sabovic (Bohemia, N.Y.), junior, Farmingdale State College men's tennis